Purpose

The purpose of the Doctor of Nursing Practice program is to prepare graduates in two general categories: 1) advanced practice nurse roles and 2) roles that specialize in aggregate, systems, or organizational level practice. Graduates of the DNP program are able to translate research, promote evidence based practice, and develop systems of care based on research utilization.

The Doctor of Nursing Practice curriculum will provide certified registered nurse anesthetists, certified nurse practitioners, certified clinical nurse specialists, nurse administrators, and public/community health nurses with a doctoral education beyond that required for entry into practice to meet the need for safe, quality patient care in an increasingly complex health care environment. The program emphasizes critical thinking, careful assessment of current practices, scholarly inquiry, and decision-making based on evaluation of the best available research and evidence. Additionally, the program will serve to meet the growing need for insightful, visionary leaders and educators in the chosen role and population.